Leigha Walker and her family have braved a series of difficult challenges during the last few years, but even when she received funds from the Embrace Iowa charitable program, Walker’s first thought was to help pay it forward.
“The money they invested in me going back to school will help so many families in the future,” she said.
For more than years, the Embrace Iowa campaign, overseen by the Iowa Community Action Association, has dispersed donations from contributions made by Des Moines Register readers. The grants of up to $750 are available to individuals and families who can show an immediate and pressing need for financial assistance. In many instances, the recipients never believed they would need such urgent assistance.
Story County resident and mother of three Walker thought she was back on her feet when another unforeseen obstacle appeared. Her partner was injured in a serious automobile crash. There were issues with housing, income and automobile repairs. And her children required special attention with their schooling.